Joe

I am writing this with tear-filled eyes and a broken heart. My bunny Joe had been suffering from a rare form of cysts that had invaded his abdominal cavity for over 3 years. Joe was diagnosed around the age of six. The vet told me that Joe had a couple of months to live and I could choose to treat the problem but it probably wouldn't extend his life.

I had a long talk with Joe that day, I told him how much I loved him, and I told him how lucky I was to have him. I told him that I would fight for his life as long as he wanted to fight. Joe persevered for over three years, but unfortunately could not fight any longer. He died last night around 8:30. He had been having problems earlier that day, so I took him to the vet. The vet said that the cysts were pretty big and were probably pushing on his chest and making it difficult to breathe. He drained fluid from his abdomen and Joe immediately started breathing easier.

I took Joe home and fixed him on a comfy blanket in his cage. I left him alone for about an hour and a half just to let him relax. When I saw that Joe wasn't getting up and moving around, I picked him up and started cradling him in my arms. I talked to him and told him how much I loved him. We talked about growing up together: he saw me graduate from high school, and then from college, and got to live in my new house. I told him that he was the best bunny in the world and that I could never ever replace him. I told him that I was still willing to fight if he wanted to, but I told him if he NEEDED to go, then he could go... It was as if he had been waiting to hear it because as soon as the words left my mouth, he gasped for air, and then he was gone. I couldn't believe it, I still can't believe it. I held my baby boy for close to three hours while I cried.

Joe just celebrated his ninth birthday last month, and although some bunnies live longer than that--no bunny has lived that long dealing with what my baby was dealing with. He was such a fighter, and I am so proud of him for having the strength to go home when he knew it was time. The rainbow bridge is a better place with my baby boy there.

I ask that today everybody take a moment to kiss their bunny not just once, but a million times.....because when they're gone...you'll feel like you never kissed them enough...

joe exploring

Joe and Cadberry

Young Joe

Ready for my close up!

last updated october 24, 2010